Laboratory Program Manager

Are you a driven, collaborative professional with robust experience in laboratory operations with proven strategic leadership abilities? Do you thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you! The Oregon Department of Agriculture is seeking a Laboratory Program Manager (Science, Chemistry, and Laboratory Manager 2) to oversee and improve the daily operations of our laboratory facilities. As a key member of our team, you will have the opportunity to lead and implement initiatives that optimize efficiency, quality, and compliance in our labs. If this sounds like the next step in your career, then don’t delay, apply today! 

Oregon Department of Agriculture – Who we are:

At ODA, employees work with a dynamic and supportive team of mission-focused individuals tasked with ensuring healthy natural resources, environment, and economy for Oregonians now and in the future through inspection and certification, regulation, and promotion of agriculture and food. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion are embedded in ODA’s core values. Employees at all levels of the agency work together to foster fairness, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Learn more about what we do here!

The Laboratory Program Manager (Science, Chemistry, and Laboratory Manager 2) is a full-time permanent position, located in Wilsonville, Oregon.

What you’ll be doing

The Laboratory Program Manager (Science, Chemistry, and Laboratory Manager 2) provides scientific, supervisory, and strategic leadership for the agency’s analytical laboratory program, ensuring compliance with all regulatory and accreditation standards.

You will oversee the activities of laboratory personnel to ensure high-quality testing and timely results.

In this role you will maintain accreditation to ISO IEC 17025, serve as the agency representative member to Oregon’s Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program (ORELAP) and ensure compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations and requirements.

You will develop, implement, and maintain laboratory policies and procedures. 

You will lead, supervise, mentor, and recruit diverse, competent, innovative, and service-oriented staff to support the Oregon Department of Agriculture mission and strategic objectives.

Interested to learn more about this position?

Click here to view a full description of this position.

What are we looking for?

To Qualify for the Position, You Need:

Six years of supervision, management, or progressively related experience.

OR

Three years of related experience and a bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry or a closely related field of science.

Desired Attributes for This Position:

Beyond the minimum qualifications listed above, we are also looking for the following knowledge, skills, and abilities. You do not need to have experience in every area listed, but the more you can demonstrate, the more competitive your application will be.  Please make sure your relevant experience is clearly reflected in your resume and cover letter. 

Demonstrated ability to oversee complex laboratory operations and maintain high standards of quality and accuracy.

Demonstrated leadership strengths with the ability to effectively guide scientific, technical, and administrative teams.

Experience developing, validating, and implementing scientific methods and workflows.

Demonstrated ability to understand technical laboratory workflows, complex scientific data, assays, and complex equipment.

Expertise in managing laboratory budgets, capital equipment procurement, and vendor contracts.

Demonstrated ability communicating as the primary liaison between scientific staff, executive leadership, and external stakeholders.

Proven ability to cultivate a respectful, inclusive, and mission-driven work environment.

Projected Recruitment Timeline

Recruitment Closes: September 27, 2026

1st Round of Interviews: Week of October 12th, 2026

2nd Round of Interviews: TBD

Anticipated Start Date: December 1, 2026

*These dates are approximate and may change. *

How to apply:

Required: A cover letter & resume is required and is an important part of the application process. All application materials are reviewed by Human Resources, the Hiring Manager, and panel members throughout the recruitment process. Your cover letter & resume are key opportunities to speak directly to each decision-maker and highlight your skills and experience. Please address your cover letter to Lindsay Eng and describe how you meet the desired attributes above. Your cover letter must be no more than two pages.

Failure to attach the required documents and follow the directions above may result in the disqualification of your application.